We were deeply affected by the damage inflicted upon our greens in May, the messages of sympathy and support has been overwhelming, thanks to all our faithful customers. During these months we have intensively researched a variety of remedial plans, focusing on the best solution for the future of our greens and we have decided the right choice is to resurface.

This restoration project will involve substantial earthworks to every green, so we have designed a provisional course layout with 18 temporary greens that will be similar in length to the existing course. Preparations for this alternate course have started and will be in play from Wednesday 6th November 2019 until mid to late March 2020.

Although we don’t want to disrupt any bookings the nature of this project will necessitate closing every Monday and Tuesday from 4th November until 3rd December. Once the groundwork and contouring are completed, we will sow with Pure Distinction bentgrass. Unlike typical bentgrass species, Pure Distinction is not grainy, produces a smooth and true putting surface that has exceptionally strong resistance to diseases, heat, cold and wear.

Well known golf courses such as Royal Auckland GC(NZ), Cypress Point GC(USA), Bel-Air CC(USA), Oakland Hills CC(USA) and Adare Manor(IRL) have recently changed their greens to Pure Distinction with remarkable success and tremendous feedback.

We are confident that once our greens have recovered, we will be able to offer an exceptional putting surface all year round.

It is with great regret Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary need to issue the following statement:

We have had a sudden decline of the putting surfaces at Wairakei, signs of a problem with the greens became apparent during Easter weekend. Extensive soil and foliar tests conducted by the NZ Turf Institute have returned clear results. We are awaiting further turf analysis tests but have been advised that the cause of the damage is due to the inadvertent application of a herbicide. We suspect that the introduction of this substance was intentionally done so by a third party.

Like most courses we monitor the greens on an ongoing basis and regularly get the NZ Turf Institute to analyse them. We were informed that prior to this incident they were in an extremely healthy state.

Unfortunately given the onset of winter and lack of growth over this period there is no realistic chance of recovery until the Spring.

As valued customers we need to inform you of the current state and condition of the greens. We have decided to reduce the green fee, effective from Saturday 11th May, to a flat rate of $100 green fee per player.

The owner and staff are deeply devastated by what has occurred, we take great pride in presenting an exceptional product and experience.

The situation will be continually monitored and assessed as to their recovery.

UPDATE as at 18th June 2019 - we have reduced the green fee to $75 per player until further notice.

Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is situated in the Wairakei Tourist Park which is an extraordinary geothermal area just north of Taupo township. Cultural experiences, bubbling mud and hot pools are a major attraction for visitors to the Taupo region, and Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary is one of the most popular golfing destinations in New Zealand.

The course is located a stones throw from the mighty Waikato River so that the roar of the powerful Huka Falls can almost be heard, and around its borders plumes of superheated steam can be seen rising through mature forest.

To the East rolling farmland extends to a skyline dominated by another extinct volcano Mt Tauhara.

This area is known as the Central Volcanic Plateau and for good reason. Lake Taupo was formed by one of the biggest volcanic eruptions known to man, and to the South Ruapehu and Ngauruhoe are still live volcanoes.

Maori culture is alive and well in this region. The local Iwi, Ngati Tuwharetoa are a powerful tribe who are vibrant and active in the community. The Pouwhenua pole carving in the entrance way to the course was designed and built locally by members of the Iwi.

18 hole championship golf course - Par 72, 6460 metres from the championship tees, skilfully designed to blend with the natural surroundings of bush, prolific bird song and picturesque scenery. 

Pro shop – fully stocked with leading brands like Callaway, Taylormade, Adidas, Footjoy, Oakley, and more.  An excellent selection of mens and ladies Wairakei branded clothing, caps and visors.  A variety of shoes, golf balls, putters, bags and accessories are also on offer.  Everything a golfer needs.

Hire carts – 62 motorised golf carts (two seaters) available for hire.  Bookings advised.

Hire clubs – we offer an executive range of hire clubs that include the latest models from Callaway, Ping and Titleist.  Bookings essential.

Hire trundlers – complimentary three wheel trundlers available upon request.

Club repair services – our PGA professionals can help with your club repair needs.  Please note depending on the repair requirement some components may need to be ordered or sent away.

Clubhouse – open to golfers and general public.  Fully licensed, serving fresh and delicious food whilst overlooking the beautiful scenery of the golf course, with a warm welcoming atmosphere and friendly service.

Practice areas – full swing practice tee, short game bunker area and putting green.

Professional coaching and lessons – we have a dedicated coaching area where our PGA professionals can pin point the area of your swing that needs the most work and discover the best way of correcting it.  Please click here for coaching options.

Corporate golf days and tournaments – we host a number of extremely successful events, as the course, facilities, service and location make it the perfect venue for golf tournaments.  We are able to cater for a wide variety of golf events that can be tailored to suit your needs.

Imagine the experience of playing golf on a world class championship course, immersed in the natural beauty of a wildlife sanctuary. The ambitious project is the brainchild of owner Gary Lane and has seen a dedicated five kilometre ‘Xcluder’ fence installed around the entire course perimeter. The fence stands more than 2 metres tall and has been specially designed to keep out predators like rats, mice, stoats, weasels, hedgehogs, feral cats and possums.

Around 25,000 native trees and five thousand exotics have been planted to encourage bird life and further improve the park like surroundings. Mixed colour pheasants, guinea fowl, pekin ducks and fallow deer have also been released on to the property.

In 2012, an agreement was established between Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary and the Department of Conservation to work cooperatively together to make the most of conservation and restoration opportunities within the sanctuary. That includes using the predator free environment as a crèche for kiwi chicks, a safe place for them to "find their feet" and grow.  Wairakei has been home to many kiwi chicks since.

March 2015, Wairakei welcomed retired breeding takahē, Grant and Flotsom, followed by Matariki and Hauhanga in August.  For the takahē, the Wairakei retirement opportunity is an escape from competition while clearing vital breeding space for younger takahē pairs on their pest-free home bases. Late 2015, Matariki and Hauhanga (unexpectedly) came out of retirement to produce Wairakei’s first takahē chick, Sammie.  Sammie is a very special chick; especially considering there are only 347 takahē left in New Zealand. Sammie is now residing in Murchison Mountains.

2019 we introduced a third pair, Aparima (M) and Larivee (F), now we have 6 happy takahē loving the sanctuary we provide.

There are also two kārearea (New Zealand falcon) that return annually to nest, they've had numerous chicks and enjoy making the most of the predator free environment for raising their young. 

In October 2019 we are looking forward to the opening of the Crombie Lockwood Kiwi Burrow, a dedicated kiwi incubation, hatching and brooding centre.  This facility will be managed by Kiwis for kiwi and unfortunately not open for the public, but keep an eye on our facebook page here for updates.  

Green Fees

If you are not aware of the damage inflicted upon our greens and our green restoration project please scroll down to the next article to read Green Restoration Project - November 2019

Reduced green fee rate for the green restoration project/ provisional course layout (18 temporary greens and 2 temporary tees):

NZ registered player $95 per person

NZ registered player replay round  (within 7 days) $75 per person

International registered player $120 per person

International registered player replay round  (within 7 days) $95 per person

Please note that the provisional course will not be NZ golf rated therefore rounds here are not eligible for handicapping.

These rates include GST and are valid until our new greens are in play, date to be confirmed but we anticipate sometime in March 2020.

Gift Vouchers

We are happy to offer gift vouchers for 'Goods and Services to the Value of $XXX' (any dollar denomination) which can be used toward green fees and lessons as well as in the Pro Shop and Clubhouse/Sprig Bar.  Vouchers will have an expiry date of 12 months from the date of purchase.  Due to the greens restoration project and the associated variation in green fee rates, as well as the uncertainty around when gift voucher recipients may choose to play, we are currently not offering gift vouchers specifically for green fees.  

If you would like to purchase a gift voucher, please contact us and provide the following:

- Value of voucher requested

- Name of the recipient(s)

- Your name and contact details

- Credit or Debit Card details (or request our bank details for a direct credit)

- Preferred form of voucher (physical or emailed digital copy)

- Email or postal address to where we can send the voucher

Hire Equipment

Golf cart: $50.00

Executive Club Hire 18 holes incl. trundler: $55.00

Hire Shoes: $10.00

Trundlers: Complimentary

Prior bookings and hire equipment arrangements are essential to avoid disappointment

Proof of club membership may be requested.

Dress Standard

ALL PLAYERS AND SPECTATORS must be dressed in appropriate golf attire. Neat and tidy at all times with collared shirts, dress trousers or shorts to be worn. For example no denim, trackpants, jandals or boots.

Please note we are a SOFT SPIKE only course, ALL METAL SPIKED golf shoes are not permitted.

We are able to change spikes or hire shoes are available at the pro shop.

We invite you to become a member of the Wairakei Tui Golf Club, to experience New Zealand’s number one golf course as your Home course.  A superb golf course skilfully designed to blend with the natural surroundings of bush, prolific bird song and picturesque scenery. Wairakei golf course is the first of its kind providing a unique pest proof sanctuary and a haven for fallow deer and many birdlife including pheasants, guinea fowl, ducks, kiwi and takahe, which are all free to roam around the course.

Membership benefits:

- Entitled to play without paying any green fees (subject to availability)

- Use of all the practice facilities

- Discount on cart hire

- A reduced green fee for three guests playing with you

- 18 hole members are permitted to play in a haggle competition twice a week, Wednesday and Sunday

Cost Overview

Subscriptions have been set for the 2019/2020 season, 1st April 2019 to 31st March 2020.

For an application form please click here

Applications can be emailed to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Whatever your playing level we have a coaching option to improve your game. Our two NZPGA approved professionals are available for both private lessons and golf schools.

Please phone the Pro Shop for appointments Phone: 07-374-8152.

or email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Individual Lessons

One to one format, full shots on the practice range focusing on key points of your swing. A great way to pinpoint the area of your swing that needs the most work and discover the best way of correcting it.

Short game lessons on putting, chipping, pitching or bunkers are also available on our excellent practice facilities. Just what you need to sort out those frustrating scoring shots.

$50 per 30 minutes.

5 Lesson Series

While working your way into a new swing, a series gives you the opportunity to have the repeated guidance of your own coach, ensuring you stay on track. A series also enables you to work on all aspects of the game with someone who knows it best.

$225 for 5 x 30-minute lessons

Silicon Coach Computer Analysis Lesson

Silicon Coach is a video analysis programme that enables coach and student to instantly view and study the swing. Silicon Coach advantages:

Instant feedback - the ability to view your own swing, speeds up the learning process.

Compare various swings with the use of split frames and overlays.

A full range of tools is available to enhance analysis of a person’s technique.

Playing Lessons

Play a round under the experienced eye of our resident professional.

While you're on the course your professional will guide you through swing adjustments and course management.

A playing lesson is an ideal way to learn how to think your way around the golf course. Choose the right club and style of shot for each occasion, in a way that can't be taught or learnt on the driving range.

1 - 4 people $150.00 for 9 holes (plus green fee)

Wairakei School of Golf 3 Day Programme

Now’s your chance to be professionally coached on all aspects of your golf game and play New Zealand’s finest golf course.

The Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary invites you to join the Wairakei School of Golf. Resident N.Z.P.G.A. professional Steven Jessup will guide you through a professionally designed 3-day programme which covers tee & fairway play, short game and bunker play. The school also teaches the student course management, you will also receive a personal recording (saved to USB drive), so those vital points are not forgotten.

The School fee includes:

- Breakfast and lunch daily.
- All range and green fees, as well as electric cart hire.
- An instructional recording of you and your coach(saved to USB drive), so that you have a visual record of swing changes and improvements that have been made to your swing over the three days of tuition.

- Steve will guide you during two rounds of 9 holes and one round of 18 holes, coaching you through your game and course management. Question him on rules and using them towards your advantage.

Areas covered in the school are:

- Full Swing
- Pitching
- Chipping
- Bunker Shots
- Putting
- Odd Lies

Wairakei School of Golf fee $945 (per person) - includes all coaching, USB drive, green fees, cart hire, range use, two breakfasts and three lunches.

Accommodation - we can arrange accommodation at either Wairakei Resort or Asure Ascot Motor Inn, please feel free to contact us for prices.

Wairakei Resort - located 2km from the golf course, Wairakei Resort offers excellent service, comfortable accommodation, plenty of leisure facilities, a restaurant and cafe.  For more details of their facilities please browse through their website - www.wairakei.co.nz.

Asure Ascot Motor Inn Taupo - located 8km from the golf course in Taupo township.  Asure Ascot Motor Inn is a 15 unit motel that has self-catering options and is within easy walking distance to the beautiful foreshore of Lake Taupo and Taupo town centre.  For more details of their facilities please browse through their website - www.ascotattaupo.co.nz 

For more information please contact the Pro Shop at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.